Developing a comprehensive energy strategy is an essential part of any successful planning application. It demonstrates how your development will meet sustainability goals, optimise energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and integrate renewable energy solutions, while adhering to local planning regulations. A well-prepared energy strategy helps ensure compliance with planning policies and supports the long-term sustainability of your project.

Local authorities are increasingly encouraging developers to go beyond standard building regulations by submitting detailed energy strategies. These strategies, often referred to as Energy and Sustainability Statements, are now a common requirement in the UK’s planning legislation for both residential and commercial developments.

At Melin, we recognise the importance of energy strategies in planning applications and their impact on approval. Our team of in-house specialists is dedicated to providing support to clients and design teams, ensuring that your energy strategy aligns with local policies and is completed smoothly without delays.

What is an Energy Strategy?

An energy strategy is a formal document that outlines how a development will meet energy efficiency and sustainability targets while complying with local energy policies. It addresses key issues such as reducing CO2 emissions, optimizing energy use, and incorporating renewable technologies.

Most Local Planning Authorities (LPAs) require a specific reduction in carbon emissions or energy use, typically 10%, 15%, or 19% beyond current building regulations. Some areas, such as those under The London Plan or Bath & North East Somerset (BANES), have stricter standards.

The foundation of an energy strategy often comes from SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) and SBEM (Simplified Building Energy Model) calculations, which are also necessary for building regulations. At Melin, we retain these reports and can revise them later for building regulation compliance, offering our clients a discounted rate if no major design changes occur.

Our Approach

Understanding and navigating the varying requirements of local planning policies can be challenging. Our team of sustainability consultants has worked on thousands of projects across the UK and is familiar with the energy standards required in different regions. Whether your project needs a 20% renewable energy contribution or a 19% improvement over Part L requirements, we have the experience and expertise to deliver a tailored energy strategy.

When local planning policies are unclear, we can liaise with the relevant planning authority on your behalf, ensuring clarity before the project begins. This helps save time and avoids unnecessary complications.

Our energy strategies are bespoke to your project, developed to find the most cost-effective and sustainable solutions.

From SAP and SBEM calculations to detailed reporting, we provide comprehensive, easy-to-understand solutions that satisfy both planners and builders.

Our Process

Liaison

We start by consulting with the Local Planning Authority to fully understand their specific energy requirements. This helps us identify any potential design constraints and opportunities for value engineering, ensuring the energy strategy fits seamlessly with the project design.

Client Aspirations

At Melin, we value our clients' input. We begin by considering your aspirations and preferred specifications for the development. We ask clients to complete an energy statement checklist, outlining their choices for construction, heating, and more. While enhancements may be needed, we strive to stay aligned with your preferences wherever possible.

[Download the example checklist here]

Assessment

We conduct initial SAP or SBEM calculations and use this data as the foundation of our feasibility study. This includes evaluating low and zero-carbon technologies (LZC) and assessing their suitability for the project. We also utilise state of the art dynamic simulation modelling software to explore technical and cost-effective solutions, while factoring in potential challenges like overheating, acoustics, and air quality.

Draft Report

Once a clear strategy is established, we prepare a draft report detailing the solutions, including the construction, M&E (Mechanical and Electrical), and renewable energy specifications used to ensure compliance. This draft is shared with the client for review and feedback before finalizing.

Final Report

After incorporating any feedback, we produce the final report for submission to the planning authority. This ensures that all planning policy requirements are met and that the strategy supports your overall planning application.

What Happens Next?

• If Planning Permission is Granted: Before starting the project, you'll need to complete Part L SAP Calculations and Part O Overheating Calculations for building regulations. Our team is available to assist with this. We also review the planning conditions to check for any further requirements we can help you meet.
• If Planning Permission is Refused: If your application is refused, send us the refusal notes. We will assess whether there are any aspects we can address to assist with a successful re-application.

Get in Touch……………

If you would like to discuss how we can support your energy strategy and planning application, don't hesitate to reach out to our team. We're here to ensure that your development meets sustainability goals, complies with planning regulations, and moves smoothly through the planning process.

Contact us today to learn how we can assist with your project!